World's Best Islands

No. 25 Raiatea, French Polynesia

Smack-dab in the middle of Tahiti and Bora Bora, this tiny, lesser-known island—completely surrounded by a ring of coral reef like its island neighbor Tahaa—is a hidden gem in French Polynesia. The island stands out for its affordable lodging, but you’ll want to be especially sure to visit its boutiques for a slew of handmade trinkets.